The 49th Annual Christmas Stroll will take place December 1-3, 2023 featuring a visit by Santa Claus, Santa’s Village Marketplace, live entertainment, craft shows, tours, and local specials. While some events are still being finalized, now is a great time to contact us to book a rental for Stroll Weekend.
'Buy Local' is a popular rallying cry these days but here on the island it's more than just a passing fad. Since 1973 local merchants have been keeping their shops open late on the first Friday in December to celebrate the season. The first Stroll, was only three hours in duration but by all accounts it was a huge success. Over the years, the event has grown to become a nationally-renowned holiday event that includes something for everyone over 3 days. Festivities that include live entertainment on Main Street, craft shows, performances, special dinners at island restaurants, tours, and exhibitions. Local merchants just as they did back in 73' will be offering refreshments to shoppers throughout the event.
Below is just a small sampling of Stroll events. For more details visit www.nantucketchamber.org/nantucket-noel/. Check back often for new and updated information.
Dusk, November 24, Annual Christmas Tree Lighting: The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be held the evening of November 24th at dusk.
November 25 – 30: Trees will be decorated by businesses and community members, including island students.
Saturday, December 2:
10:00AM-3:00PM SHOP SANTA'S VILLAGE: Meander through our wondrous Christmas Stroll Marketplace and celebrate the enchantment of the season. Indulge in the aromas of delectable food and beverages as you chat with friends and survey a variety of handcrafted gifts and merchandise sold by Chamber members and non-profit organizations. Foot of Main Street.
10:00AM-3:00PM “PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD” STOREFRONT & TREE DECORATING CONTEST: Stroll through Town to admire the gaily decorated trees and storefronts. Place your vote for your favorite in our “People’s Choice Award.” Stop by the Chamber Information Table at the Christmas Stroll Marketplace for information about the trees and stores in the decorating contest!
10:00AM-4:00PM MAIN STREET STAGE ENTERTAINMENT: Stop by the stage to enjoy performances by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket, The Boys and Girls Club, Susan J. Berman, NCMC Vocalist, The Accidentals & Naturals, Nantucket Ballet, and more.
11:45AM TOWN CRIER RINGS IN CHRISTMAS STROLL: Gather at the Main Street stage to help our Town Crier ring in our 49th Stroll!
12:00PM-1:00PM SANTA CLAUS COMES TO TOWN! Watch Santa's arrival via Coast Guard cutter, and join Santa’s parade as it travels up Main Street and across Centre Street to the NHA Whaling Museum.
1:00PM-2:30PM SANTA MEET & GREET: Come to the Whaling Museum where you can meet and take photos with Santa. Don't forget your letters to the North Pole, which can be left in Santa's mailbox.
3:00PM UGLY SWEATER CONTEST: Join us at the top of Main Street with honorary judge, Santa Claus! You know you have one, so why not get a prize for wearing it? Meet at the top of Main Street at 2:30pm. Get ready to strut your stuff at 3pm!
4:30PM COMMUNITY CAROLING ON MAIN STREET: Join our Victorian Carolers for a very special sing-along on the steps of Pacific National Bank on Main Street to close another amazing Christmas Stroll Saturday.
Sunday, December 3:
3:00PM - 6:00PM: JOLLY JAM SKATE WITH SANTA: Join us at the Nantucket Ice Community Rink for live music, kid's activities, food trucks, cookies & hot cocoa!
Afternoon: Decorated trees and storefronts will be evaluated by a coterie of judges. The winners will be announced via social media.
Double Red Ticket Saturdays: Double Red Tickets will be issued by participating businesses on Saturdays throughout Nantucket Noel.
December 24, Christmas Eve: Red ticket winners will be drawn at the top of Main Street at 3pm.
